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Arkansas Bluestar, Ouachita Bluestar,
Left: Amsonia hubrichtii in ASMSA Garden in Spring 2023.
Left: Amsonia hubrichtii in ASMSA Garden in Spring 2023.
Above: Amsonia hubrichtii flowering in late spring and early summer
Above: Amsonia hubrichtii flowering in late spring and early summer
Plant Characteristics
Plant Characteristics
Plant Preference/Growing Conditions:
The plant grows tall and wide (24-36 in) and prefers a bit of space so it can grow fully. Easily grows in medium moisture, well-drained soil, and part-shade/full sun. Prefers chalky, rocky, loam, and sand based soil.
Growth Habit/Description:
It grows into a big bush and keeps it structure through every season. It grows 2-3 feet tall, 2-3 feet wide.
Bloom Season:
The bluestar flowers bloom at the top of each stem. Produces star-shaped, light blue, soft flowers.
Fall and/or Winter Interest?
Yes. Turns a bright yellow in fall. It hibernates in winter.
Distribution
Distribution
Habitat: The Bluestar enjoys very rocky grounds that getfull sun and dry creek banks. It was originally discovered in the Ouachita mountains in Arkansas.
Native to Arkansas? Yes
Native to Garland County? Yes
Endemic to Arkansas? Yes. Endemic to the Ouachitas of Western Arkansas and Eastern Oklahoma.
Ecological Value
Ecological Value
Host Plant for Butterflies?
Yes. It is the host plant for the wild indigo Duskywing and Frosted elfin butterflies.
Other Known Ecological Value?
Yes. Due to the fact it blooms many pollinators like this plants, but a good thing is deer do not like this plant and it it fairly resistant to drought.
Other Interesting Facts
Other Interesting Facts
Origin of Name: Bluestar comes from the faces that its flower are shaped like tinny little blue stars.
Related Plant Species: The bluestar plant is related to the common plant periwinkle (Vinca minor) and frangipani (Plumeria rubra).
Accolades: Despite being endemic to the Ouachita Mountains, Arkansas Bluestar won Perennial Plant of the Year Award in 2011 and is available through the commercial nursery trade.
References
References
Gardenia. “Amsonia hubrichtii (Narrowleaf Bluestar).” Gardenia.net, https://www.gardenia.net/plant/amsonia-hubrichtii-blue-star . Accessed 7 September 2023.
Hawke, Richard G. “Plant Evaluation Notes - An Evaluation Study of Hardy Amsonia.” Chicago Botanic Garden, 2002.
https://www.chicagobotanic.org/downloads/planteval_notes/no18_amsonia.pdf . Accessed 7 September 2023.
Hubricht, Leslie. “Amsonia hubrichtii Thread leaved bluestar.” New Moon Nursery, http://www.newmoonnursery.com/plant/Amsonia-hubrichtii . Accessed 7 September 2023.
Last edited by Christine Dunning, September 2023.
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